Cycling question

[stradt03]

I'm using dead shrimp to start my cycling process.....question i have is how do I know when the bacteria is beginning to grow? will I see any changes in the tank or will it be strictly through testing for ammonia?


thanks for helping a newbie.


Jason

 

[lando]

testing is your answer. You will see NHw3 rise and spike, then fall. After the NH3 spike you will see NO2 rise, spike and fall. This if followed by the rise in NO3. Normal cycle lasts about four weeks, some as long as six.